Celebrating the life of
Cathy Clary Leaf
November 02, 1964 - January 23, 2008
Cathy J. Clary Leaf
SAVANNAH – Cathy J. Clary Leaf, age 43, died Wednesday, January 23, 2008, at Candler Hospital. The Columbus, GA native had lived in Savannah for most of her life. She was a graduate of Young Harris College, Auburn University and Georgia Southern College, where she received her Masters degree and EdS degree.
Cathy was a member of Wesley Monumental United Methodist Church where she sang in the Chancel Choir and was a member of the Pacesetters Circle and the Ivy Sunday School Class.
Cathy was an educator, having worked for almost twenty years for the Effingham County Board of Public Education.
She was an avid world traveler and a great story teller.
Cathy was preceded in death by her father, Rev. James A. Clary and her step-father, Cecil R. Usher.
Surviving are her husband, Harry K. Leaf; her daughter, Isabelle Claire Leaf; and a step-daughter, Whitney Leaf, all of Savannah; her mother, Betty Clary Usher of Garden City; her sister, Susan Clary Simmons Scott of Greenville, SC; her brother, James Allen Clary Lisa of Knightdale, NC; and several nieces and nephews.
The family will receive friends from 5:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. on Friday at Fox & Weeks Funeral Directors, Hodgson Chapel.
Funeral services will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday at Wesley Monumental United Methodist Church.
Interment will follow in Hillcrest Abbey Memorial Park.
Remembrances may be made to the Wesley Monumental Chancel Choir, 429 Abercorn St., Savannah, GA 31401.
Harry, girls and Aunt Betty. I just want you to know you are in our thoughts and prayers. Cathy was amazing and a great inspiration to me.
- Gina Araujo, palm coast, FL
Went to High School with Cathy...She shared her passion with my children...they loved her, she will be missed...love & prayer to her family
- Lea Nunn Adams, Statesboro, GA
I knew Cathy for many years as a teacher and friend. We taught together at the 6th grade annex and then at SEMS. My fondest memories of her include her infectious laughter. She could always get me going. Cathy had a deep love of God, family, and students - she will be sorely missed.
- Christine Holt, Rincon, GA
Dear Ms. Usher, I have been friends with Cathy since we first met in the 8th grade. We shared almost all of our classes together in high school and we have remained great friends throughout our adult lives. I am so honored and thankful that I called Cathy on Christmas Eve and she answered the phone. She was in a good place that day and we had a wonderful conversation, filled with laughter and memories. I will cherish that forever. My heart bleeds for your loss and I pray for you daily. God Bless, Dennis
- DENNIS STOKELY, Los Angeles, CA
Dear Ms. Usher, I have been friends with Cathy since we first met in the 8th grade. We shared almost all of our classes together in high school and we have remained great friends throughout our adult lives. I am so honored and thankful that I called Cathy on Christmas Eve and she answered the phone. She was in a good place that day and we had a wonderful conversation, filled with laughter and memories. I will cherish that forever. My heart bleeds for your loss and I pray for you daily. God Bless, Dennis
- DENNIS STOKELY, Los Angeles, CA
My Condolences are with the Leaf Family. Mrs. Clary Leaf was one of my favorite teachers when i was at SEMS. I had her all three years. Two for art and one for Yearbook. I still remember when she got married and us students kept slipping and calling her Miss Clary. I still use many of her lessons about art and design in life today, and my studies have zero to do with art. She was an amazing teacher, and person. My prayers are with the family and friends who knew her better than I.
- Gayla Palacios Antone, Charlotte, NC
Susan, You and your family have been in our prayers for many weeks.We will continue to pray for Allen as he begins his fight. I hope you can all find comfort in knowing that God has healed Cathy's body and that she is in His presence. Our love to you and your family. Art and Sally
- Sally and Art Seaver, Greenville, SC
Betty: Although we did not know Cathy, we just want you to know that our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family at this time.
- Linda and Hal Duensing, Savannah, GA
I enjoyed teaching school with Cathy. All the students adored her and looked forward to art class. Many prayers to her family.
- Carol Calhoun, Statesboro, GA
Dear Family, My thoughts and prayers are with you all. My precious Susan, know your Flock in Greenville is standing in the gap for all of you, and pray that your family, indeed rest in the peace that only the Father can provide.
- Catherine Flagg, Greenville, SC
Dear Leaf Family, Laurie and I send our deepest sympathy with Cathy's passing. Susan shared Cathy's journey with us through our Sunday School class at First Presbyterian Church. Please know our prayers are with you.
- Grayson and Laurie Thomas, Greer, SC
Susan, Holly and I are saddened to hear about the loss of Cathy. May God's love surround you and your extended family during this difficult time.
- Mike Thomason, Greenville, SC
Susan, please know that we have your entire family in our thoughts and prayers--for strength and comfort and also for healing for your brother. There are times when God carries you--let Him! Love, Judy and Jim Erickson
- Judy Erickson, Greenville, SC
Dear Harry and girls, Ed and I were so sorry to hear about Cathy. You all fought so valiantly for such a long time and have been such a testimony to all who have known you. May God grant you comfort and peace knowing that His precious daughter is now with Him in His loving presence. God Bless you and keep you.
- jane and ed, Savannah, GA
To the family of Cathy Leaf Our sympathy to Cathy's family in the days ahead. We have prayed for Cathy and all of you throughout her illness and will continue to lift you up in the days ahead. We are friends of Susan and Scott and are in the Flock Sunday School Class at First Presbyterian. Janet and Tom Edwards
- Janet Edwards, Greenville, SC
Susan, I feel so much for you and your family in this time of loss. But I know full well it is also a time of great jubilation, as you and your family know of the certainty of eternal life with our Savior. Greg and the Ramsey family.
- Greg Ramsey, greenville, GA
We are grieving and feel overwhelmed with the tragic loss of Cathy. Her love for Harry and Isabelle will endure forever. We will always remember her big smile when she talked about her travels with Harry. May the thoughts of Cathy and all the love she gave of good times spent together bring you peace and help ease the sadness of your loss. May the memories of Cathy held deep within your heart help soothe your sprit at this time. With Deepest Sympathy, Hope and Lee Lassiter
- Hope and Lee Lassiter, Savannah, GA
May the shadow of God's wings give you comfort during this time. Know that HIS promise of glory is a blessing and a source of strength. We love you and are with you in Spirit and prayer.
- Kristin Young, Greer, SC
Ms.Betty, Susan, and Allen, I just wanted to let you know that my prayers and thoughts are with you. I am sorry I will be unable to come and see you all. I remember the days at Hamp Stevens and when I would come with Mom to visit all of you in Savannah. I want you to know I love you all and will keep you in my prayers in the days ahead. Take care and God Bless. Love, Alyson
- Alyson Hooks Wilson, Moreland, GA
Dear Susan and Family, My heart is so sad for you all, I will continue to lift up your family to our Lord. I take comfort in knowing that He loves all of you more than anyone does. May the God of all comfort make His presence known to each of you, tonight, tomorrow and all the days ahead. Love, Robbie Edwards
- Robbie Edwards, Greer, SC
To the entire family, We will continue to pray for your family. We know that you are trusting that God has a plan for our lives than we never comprehend. But we also know that you will need our prayers as you face each day without Cathy trying to discern God's plan for the future. Know that you are in our prayers and thoughts.
- Neca and Ronald Bennett, Springfield, GA
My thoughts and prayer are with you. May God carry you during these hard times. Love Susan Bennett
- Susan Bennett, Taylors, SC
Though I don't know Cathy, I do know Susan, and I can only pray that God will watch over you, Susan, and Cathy's Family, as you adjust to your deep loss. Life does go on, but your life now is forever changed for this loss, now and for years to come. May God help you navigate those times when you feel her lost the most. Jane
- Jane Linker O'Leary, GREENVILLE, SC
Mr. Leaf, My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. I only met Cathy a few times at her appointments but I could tell that she was a remarkble person. My neice has been a student of hers for the last 3 years and only had wonderful things to say about her. I know that she will be greatly missed by many. Tammy Dodd from Dr. Thomas Horn's office
- Tammy Dodd, , GA
My deepest sympathy goes out to your family. Cathy was such a wonderful person. She inspired so many people everyday with her wonderful stories and great imagination. Cathy was very talented and I loved her free spirit. She brightened everyone's day when she walked into a room. She will be truly missed.
- Leslie Shealy Reed, Statesboro, GA
Dear Mrs. Usher and family, I have nothing but fond and cherished memories of my high school days with Cathy. She was a true friend. I am so sorry for your loss. You, her children, and husband are all in my prayers.
- Lena Zettler Finholt, North Richland Hills, TX
Cathy, you will be in our hearts as a bright, cheerful and caring teacher who shared her love for the arts and for life with all who met her. My most sincere condolences to your family.
- Valerie Granzow, Rincon, GA
My experience of Cathy was that she treasured every ounce of goodness in life. In addition, she had an uncanny knack of recognizing and appreciating the unique and special pieces of others--especially when they were unable to see it in themselves. Even in the moments when she was teaching us about what was important in life, I always loved how she would close her letters by encouraging us to 'go do something fun.' Thank you, Cathy. You were marvelous.
- KATE KEITH, Statesboro, GA
Cathy has Blessed so many lives. Her kindness and compassionate nature was felt everywhere she went. Thank you for sharing her with us. She will always hold a special place in my heart. With Christian Love, Tonya Jones
- Tonya Jones, Guyton, GA
Cathy was an incredible lady, her heart shined for all. My deepest and heartfelt love and prayers are with you now and always. God Bless you, especially through these difficult times.
- christopher Morrison, Savannah, GA
Mrs. Betty and Cathy’s family, We join in mourning the loss of Cathy. I remember from our first days of working together at ECMS the glint that always was in her eye. She always saw what was good in students and in each of us, even when we couldn’t. She was a gift to this school district; we and the students who shared her professional life are blessed by her teaching here. Our prayers continue in this difficult time. Greg Arnsdorff Assistant Superintendent Effingham County Schools
- Greg Arnsdorff, Springfield, GA
I would like to express my deepest sympathies for your loss. Mrs Clary-Leaf inspired, coached and always encouraged me. I am so grateful I was able to learn from her. She will be missed dearly. You and your family are in my thoughts and prayers.
- Karla Keen, Savannah, GA
I am very sorry for the loss of Mrs. Cathy Clary which is who I knew her as. She was my art teacher in middle school. Such a wonderful and sweet person. One of my favorites. She will be missed dearly. Her family is in my thoughts and prayers.
- sara newman, rincon, GA
Dearest Betty and family- I am so very sorry for your loss. My heart aches for you. Please know that my thoughts and prayers are with you during this most difficult time and always. With deepest sorrow, Arlene
- Arlene Jaffie, savannah, GA
Betty, Harry, girls and family My heart goes out to you all at this time of sorrow. I will miss Cathy though I hadn't seen her in years. She is with God, her dad, Ma-Ma & Granddaddy Clary & her other dad, Cecil. I know she will be glad to see them all! Love, Jean
- Jean Clary Erwin, Petal, MS
No words can express how sorry we are for your loss.
- Chuck, Linda, Christopher Smith, Dawsonville, GA
to Mr. Leaf, Isabelle, and all of Ms. Leaf's family, i cant even begin to express how sorry i am for your loss. Cathy was an amazing person. She always had a way of cheering us up in class. We all love and are going to miss her dearly. we love you miss leaf. we always will.
- John Edwards, Bloomingdale, GA
The gifts Ms. Leaf gave to her students will live in them forever. What a tremendous loss to those who never had the chance to learn from her.
- Rich & Theresa Campbell, Bloomingdale, GA
Harry, I am so sorry for your loss. You and your family are in my thoughts and prayers.
- Rose Gerrald, Richmond Hill, GA
Harry, girls and Aunt Betty. I just want you to know you are in our thoughts and prayers. Cathy was amazing and a great inspiration to me.
- Gina Araujo, palm coast, FL
Went to High School with Cathy...She shared her passion with my children...they loved her, she will be missed...love & prayer to her family
- Lea Nunn Adams, Statesboro, GA
I knew Cathy for many years as a teacher and friend. We taught together at the 6th grade annex and then at SEMS. My fondest memories of her include her infectious laughter. She could always get me going. Cathy had a deep love of God, family, and students - she will be sorely missed.
- Christine Holt, Rincon, GA
Dear Ms. Usher, I have been friends with Cathy since we first met in the 8th grade. We shared almost all of our classes together in high school and we have remained great friends throughout our adult lives. I am so honored and thankful that I called Cathy on Christmas Eve and she answered the phone. She was in a good place that day and we had a wonderful conversation, filled with laughter and memories. I will cherish that forever. My heart bleeds for your loss and I pray for you daily. God Bless, Dennis
- DENNIS STOKELY, Los Angeles, CA
Dear Ms. Usher, I have been friends with Cathy since we first met in the 8th grade. We shared almost all of our classes together in high school and we have remained great friends throughout our adult lives. I am so honored and thankful that I called Cathy on Christmas Eve and she answered the phone. She was in a good place that day and we had a wonderful conversation, filled with laughter and memories. I will cherish that forever. My heart bleeds for your loss and I pray for you daily. God Bless, Dennis
- DENNIS STOKELY, Los Angeles, CA
My Condolences are with the Leaf Family. Mrs. Clary Leaf was one of my favorite teachers when i was at SEMS. I had her all three years. Two for art and one for Yearbook. I still remember when she got married and us students kept slipping and calling her Miss Clary. I still use many of her lessons about art and design in life today, and my studies have zero to do with art. She was an amazing teacher, and person. My prayers are with the family and friends who knew her better than I.
- Gayla Palacios Antone, Charlotte, NC
Susan, You and your family have been in our prayers for many weeks.We will continue to pray for Allen as he begins his fight. I hope you can all find comfort in knowing that God has healed Cathy's body and that she is in His presence. Our love to you and your family. Art and Sally
- Sally and Art Seaver, Greenville, SC
Betty: Although we did not know Cathy, we just want you to know that our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family at this time.
- Linda and Hal Duensing, Savannah, GA
I enjoyed teaching school with Cathy. All the students adored her and looked forward to art class. Many prayers to her family.
- Carol Calhoun, Statesboro, GA
Dear Family, My thoughts and prayers are with you all. My precious Susan, know your Flock in Greenville is standing in the gap for all of you, and pray that your family, indeed rest in the peace that only the Father can provide.
- Catherine Flagg, Greenville, SC
Dear Leaf Family, Laurie and I send our deepest sympathy with Cathy's passing. Susan shared Cathy's journey with us through our Sunday School class at First Presbyterian Church. Please know our prayers are with you.
- Grayson and Laurie Thomas, Greer, SC
Susan, Holly and I are saddened to hear about the loss of Cathy. May God's love surround you and your extended family during this difficult time.
- Mike Thomason, Greenville, SC
Susan, please know that we have your entire family in our thoughts and prayers--for strength and comfort and also for healing for your brother. There are times when God carries you--let Him! Love, Judy and Jim Erickson
- Judy Erickson, Greenville, SC
Dear Harry and girls, Ed and I were so sorry to hear about Cathy. You all fought so valiantly for such a long time and have been such a testimony to all who have known you. May God grant you comfort and peace knowing that His precious daughter is now with Him in His loving presence. God Bless you and keep you.
- jane and ed, Savannah, GA
To the family of Cathy Leaf Our sympathy to Cathy's family in the days ahead. We have prayed for Cathy and all of you throughout her illness and will continue to lift you up in the days ahead. We are friends of Susan and Scott and are in the Flock Sunday School Class at First Presbyterian. Janet and Tom Edwards
- Janet Edwards, Greenville, SC
Susan, I feel so much for you and your family in this time of loss. But I know full well it is also a time of great jubilation, as you and your family know of the certainty of eternal life with our Savior. Greg and the Ramsey family.
- Greg Ramsey, greenville, GA
We are grieving and feel overwhelmed with the tragic loss of Cathy. Her love for Harry and Isabelle will endure forever. We will always remember her big smile when she talked about her travels with Harry. May the thoughts of Cathy and all the love she gave of good times spent together bring you peace and help ease the sadness of your loss. May the memories of Cathy held deep within your heart help soothe your sprit at this time. With Deepest Sympathy, Hope and Lee Lassiter
- Hope and Lee Lassiter, Savannah, GA
May the shadow of God's wings give you comfort during this time. Know that HIS promise of glory is a blessing and a source of strength. We love you and are with you in Spirit and prayer.
- Kristin Young, Greer, SC
Ms.Betty, Susan, and Allen, I just wanted to let you know that my prayers and thoughts are with you. I am sorry I will be unable to come and see you all. I remember the days at Hamp Stevens and when I would come with Mom to visit all of you in Savannah. I want you to know I love you all and will keep you in my prayers in the days ahead. Take care and God Bless. Love, Alyson
- Alyson Hooks Wilson, Moreland, GA
Dear Susan and Family, My heart is so sad for you all, I will continue to lift up your family to our Lord. I take comfort in knowing that He loves all of you more than anyone does. May the God of all comfort make His presence known to each of you, tonight, tomorrow and all the days ahead. Love, Robbie Edwards
- Robbie Edwards, Greer, SC
To the entire family, We will continue to pray for your family. We know that you are trusting that God has a plan for our lives than we never comprehend. But we also know that you will need our prayers as you face each day without Cathy trying to discern God's plan for the future. Know that you are in our prayers and thoughts.
- Neca and Ronald Bennett, Springfield, GA
My thoughts and prayer are with you. May God carry you during these hard times. Love Susan Bennett
- Susan Bennett, Taylors, SC
Though I don't know Cathy, I do know Susan, and I can only pray that God will watch over you, Susan, and Cathy's Family, as you adjust to your deep loss. Life does go on, but your life now is forever changed for this loss, now and for years to come. May God help you navigate those times when you feel her lost the most. Jane
- Jane Linker O'Leary, GREENVILLE, SC
Mr. Leaf, My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. I only met Cathy a few times at her appointments but I could tell that she was a remarkble person. My neice has been a student of hers for the last 3 years and only had wonderful things to say about her. I know that she will be greatly missed by many. Tammy Dodd from Dr. Thomas Horn's office
- Tammy Dodd, , GA
My deepest sympathy goes out to your family. Cathy was such a wonderful person. She inspired so many people everyday with her wonderful stories and great imagination. Cathy was very talented and I loved her free spirit. She brightened everyone's day when she walked into a room. She will be truly missed.
- Leslie Shealy Reed, Statesboro, GA
Dear Mrs. Usher and family, I have nothing but fond and cherished memories of my high school days with Cathy. She was a true friend. I am so sorry for your loss. You, her children, and husband are all in my prayers.
- Lena Zettler Finholt, North Richland Hills, TX
Cathy, you will be in our hearts as a bright, cheerful and caring teacher who shared her love for the arts and for life with all who met her. My most sincere condolences to your family.
- Valerie Granzow, Rincon, GA
My experience of Cathy was that she treasured every ounce of goodness in life. In addition, she had an uncanny knack of recognizing and appreciating the unique and special pieces of others--especially when they were unable to see it in themselves. Even in the moments when she was teaching us about what was important in life, I always loved how she would close her letters by encouraging us to 'go do something fun.' Thank you, Cathy. You were marvelous.
- KATE KEITH, Statesboro, GA
Cathy has Blessed so many lives. Her kindness and compassionate nature was felt everywhere she went. Thank you for sharing her with us. She will always hold a special place in my heart. With Christian Love, Tonya Jones
- Tonya Jones, Guyton, GA
Cathy was an incredible lady, her heart shined for all. My deepest and heartfelt love and prayers are with you now and always. God Bless you, especially through these difficult times.
- christopher Morrison, Savannah, GA
Mrs. Betty and Cathy’s family, We join in mourning the loss of Cathy. I remember from our first days of working together at ECMS the glint that always was in her eye. She always saw what was good in students and in each of us, even when we couldn’t. She was a gift to this school district; we and the students who shared her professional life are blessed by her teaching here. Our prayers continue in this difficult time. Greg Arnsdorff Assistant Superintendent Effingham County Schools
- Greg Arnsdorff, Springfield, GA
I would like to express my deepest sympathies for your loss. Mrs Clary-Leaf inspired, coached and always encouraged me. I am so grateful I was able to learn from her. She will be missed dearly. You and your family are in my thoughts and prayers.
- Karla Keen, Savannah, GA
I am very sorry for the loss of Mrs. Cathy Clary which is who I knew her as. She was my art teacher in middle school. Such a wonderful and sweet person. One of my favorites. She will be missed dearly. Her family is in my thoughts and prayers.
- sara newman, rincon, GA
Dearest Betty and family- I am so very sorry for your loss. My heart aches for you. Please know that my thoughts and prayers are with you during this most difficult time and always. With deepest sorrow, Arlene
- Arlene Jaffie, savannah, GA
Betty, Harry, girls and family My heart goes out to you all at this time of sorrow. I will miss Cathy though I hadn't seen her in years. She is with God, her dad, Ma-Ma & Granddaddy Clary & her other dad, Cecil. I know she will be glad to see them all! Love, Jean
- Jean Clary Erwin, Petal, MS
No words can express how sorry we are for your loss.
- Chuck, Linda, Christopher Smith, Dawsonville, GA
to Mr. Leaf, Isabelle, and all of Ms. Leaf's family, i cant even begin to express how sorry i am for your loss. Cathy was an amazing person. She always had a way of cheering us up in class. We all love and are going to miss her dearly. we love you miss leaf. we always will.
- John Edwards, Bloomingdale, GA
The gifts Ms. Leaf gave to her students will live in them forever. What a tremendous loss to those who never had the chance to learn from her.
- Rich & Theresa Campbell, Bloomingdale, GA
Harry, I am so sorry for your loss. You and your family are in my thoughts and prayers.
- Rose Gerrald, Richmond Hill, GA
Services under the direction of:
Fox & Weeks Funeral Directors, Hodgson Chapel
912-352-7200

